Light From Above

Design blogger Melanie Lissack has the following tips on getting pendant lighting right

Think about the effect you want to achieve... What pendant lights will best suit the style of the room? Should you only have one pendant, or a number grouped together? Will you want the dining area well lit, or do you prefer to go for more atmospheric lighting? How low should the pendants be hung? How will your ceiling height effect the drop length? I would suggest that you start by looking for lights that suit the style of the room first, then veto out your favourites by practicality. Here are five looks: 1. Scandi This clean style just keeps getting more and more popular, especially in kitchens. White pendant lights look great when mixed with light woods. 2. Modern Hollywood This look for chandelier lighting is luxurious and striking, and great for those who love gold mixed with bright colours. 3. Dark & graphic Crisp and contemporary, this masculine look of sharp black lines is modern, but does not feel as cold as a traditionally styled industrial space. 4. Rustic grandeur There’s a big movement towards sheepskin throws and furniture made from iron or wood that almost has a medieval feel. This look would be complemented by a gothic iron chandelier and works particularly well if there is a fireplace in the room. 5. Urban concrete This makes for a real talking point in a contemporary kitchen.